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WASHINGTON - The final preparations are being made for the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony. The ceremony will begin at 5 p.m on Thursday and will include performances from several top entertainers including Chance the Rapper, Kelly Clarkson, Yolanda Adams and James Taylor.

Visitors can expect road delays around the National Mall and White House.

This will be the final National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony hosted by President Obama and family.

Road Closures

The following street closures will be in effect beginning December 1, 2016 at 2:30 p.m. All street closures will be lifted by 7 p.m.

- 17th Street, NW closed from Independence Avenue to New York Avenue, NW

- 15th Street, NW closed from Independence Avenue to E Street NW

- Constitution Avenue from 14th Street to 18th Street, NW

- Madison Drive from 14th Street to 15th Street

- Jefferson Drive from 14th Street to 15th Street

- C St NW from 18th Street to 17th Street

- D St NW from 18th Street to 17th Street

- E St NW from 18th Street to 17th Street

- F St NW from 18th Street to 17th Street

- The following additional closures will be in effect from 4:30 p.m. until 7 p.m.

- Pennsylvania Avenue from 14th Street to 15th Street, NW

- 15th Street, NW closed from Independence Avenue to New York Ave NW

Getting There

The entrance for ticketed guests is located along 17th Street NW across from E Street NW. Guests should line up from E street north. Attendees are encouraged to use public transportation and Metro to travel to President's Park. The Farragut North and West Metro stations are closest to the event.

Prohibited Items

Guests should be prepared for a search of all items carried onto the site. Law enforcement personnel reserve the right to prohibit any other items determined to be a potential public safety hazard. No bags or umbrellas are allowed into the event.